Nassau exec outlines possible cuts and changes
(02/03/09) MINEOLA - On Tuesday, Nassau County Executive Tom Suozzi detailed how he plans to plug a multi-million dollar shortfall in the county budget. “We can't just cut the fat, we've got to cut into the heart of what we do,” says Suozzi. Working to close a possible $130 million budget gap, Suozzi spelled out specifics on what cuts and changes would be made if county workers do not agree on his proposed 7 percent pay cut.
"Some of these redeployments of officers are DWI patrols, they're school resource officers in the Uniondale, Baldwin area and they do have a direct affect on crime and quality of life in Nassau,” says Nassau PBA President James Carver.
First, he says, 87 police officers and sergeants would be reassigned from special patrols like the mounted and motorcycle units to regular patrols. Union officials say this could be harmful. "Some of these redeployments of officers are DWI patrols, they're school resource officers in the Uniondale, Baldwin area and they do have a direct affect on crime and quality of life in Nassau,” says Nassau PBA President James Carver. “Each of these reassignments that are being proposed is being done specifically to make sure we protect public safety,” counters Suozzi. Suozzi's plan to potentially cut 100 corrections officers has its union concerned for their safety. “That’s a bad situation.
When the inmates get mad and the corrections officers are overworked it is very volatile so I'm worried about the safety of the co’s first,” says Michael Adams, of the Nassau Sheriff's Association. Union officials across the board say they're willing to work with the county, adding no one can afford a 7 percent cut.
Posted Wednesday, February 4, 2009
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